Collier: Recent Events Have Been A Reality Check For Us

The Bluebirds have made a promising start to life in the National League South following promotion last season.

However, they will go into the busy festive period and beyond without top scorer Pratt.

The experienced forward, who has netted nine times in the League this season, is joining rivals Wealdstone after an offer was accepted.

Chippenham went down 4-0 at high-flying Havant & Waterlooville on Saturday and despite sitting 14th in the table, boss Collier says recent events show how difficult it is to compete in the National League South.

“It’s just a reminder to everybody, the supporters at Chippenham Town, what kind of league we’re in now and what we’re up against,” he told the Gazette & Herald.

“People need to recognise that fact. David Pratt has not gone for an extra £15. He’s gone for a substantial amount of money. He’s got a young family and that’s the situation.

“It’s the league we’re in and what we’ve got to try and compete with and make the best of what we can and that’s what we will do.

“I was only thinking that when we were leaving the ground at Havant & Waterlooville where they have got full covers for the whole pitch with blowers underneath.

“That’s what we’re up against but we’re pleased to be up against it. We’re fighting our corner and pleased to be doing so.’’

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